2 Corinthians 12-13: Paul Is Caught Up into the Third Heaven

New Testament: Student Study guide, (2003), 130

Paul wrote that he was “caught up to the third heaven” (2 Corinthians 12:2)—the celestial kingdom. In 1836 the Prophet Joseph Smith also had a vision of the celestial kingdom. He wrote:“I saw the transcendent beauty of the gate through which the heirs of that kingdom will enter, which was like unto circling flames of fire;“Also the blazing throne of God, whereon was seated the Father and the Son.“I saw the beautiful streets of that kingdom, which had the appearance of being paved with gold” (D&C 137:2–4).

Neither the scriptures nor modern revelation tells us what “thorn in the flesh” afflicted or tormented Paul. Many believe Paul was afflicted with a physical disability that hindered his missionary labors.

God always provides more than one witness to support His words. This is called the law of witnesses (see 2 Nephi 11:3–4; D&C 6:28). Even today priesthood ordinances must be performed with more than one witness present.